Also known as Little Italy, San Francisco’s North Beach has a history steeped in Italian culture. Many Italian immigrants settled in this area of the city in the early 1900s and made their living working on the docks. Today, North Beach still retains its Italian heritage, which can be seen with the many Italian-style cafés dotted around the neighborhood. Locals and visitors can wind down with an espresso and a few people watching.

Caffe Trieste

Opened in 1953, Caffe Trieste was the first espresso house on the West Coast, and now enjoys international recognition. The walls are decorated with the photographs of celebrities and other famous people who have visited the café. Several films and television shows have used the spot as a set over the decades. The drink of choice at Caffe Trieste is, of course, an espresso. Several of the locals also recommend a slice of cheesecake.

Caffè Roma

First opened in 1977, Caffè Roma is an Italian-owned café in San Francisco where the coffee beans are roasted on site. This café sits at the corner of Stockton and Columbus Streets, and there is outdoor seating on both sides, which makes it the ideal place for people watching in good weather. The coffee is strong, and many proclaim that the Roma Special Blend is the best in the city. Aside from a range of high-quality coffees and espressos, Caffè Roma also sells gourmet pastries and offers lunch specials daily.

Cavalli Cafe

Owned and operated by Italian native Santo Esposito, Cavalli Cafe has been in business since 2006. The café is spread out over two stories and is very minimalistic in its decor with gray walls and simple tile floors. The house specialty is an espresso shot pulled by the owner. Customers can also choose from cappuccinos, lattes, mochas, hot chocolate, hot tea, house coffee and a variety of cold beverages. All of the pastries and sandwiches are made in-house. The simple food menu includes paninis, cannolis, tiramisu and pannacotta.

Caffè Greco

Sandy and Hanna Suleiman opened Caffè Greco in 1988 and have succeeded in making it one of the most genuine Italian cafés in San Francisco. It has won many awards and accolades for its service and commitment to serving high-quality coffees and pastries. Caffè Greco serves Illy Caffè coffee, large cappuccinos and espresso drinks. The food menu includes a variety of salads and paninis, and it makes its gelato, tiramisu and cannolis in-house. Those looking for something a bit stronger can opt for a glass of beer or wine.